FROM CITY TO MOUNTAINS
Having some time out, relaxing with friends and family, re-energising, and refreshing the soul. Has it been a while?
Tongariro National Park is a popular destination in the summer months for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but did you know the earthy, volcanic landscapes of this Dual World Heritage Area have plenty of other outdoor pursuits for nature lovers? Slap on the sunblock and explore unknown tracks and hidden gems - there is an experience on offer for everyone.
Make your first stop at the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre at Whakapapa Village, where the Department of Conservation works alongside our local i-Site to share extensive knowledge on trails and have 3D models showcasing where you are and how to get around.
"Tongariro National Park earthy landscapes has plenty of other outdoor pursuits for nature lovers. ”
Whether you’re familiar with Tongariro National Park or not, wander into the Visitor Centre for all the information you need to make the most of your visit, including maps and information on local activities, short walks, viewpoints and great photography spots. The Visitor Centre and i-Site is open every day except Christmas Day.
Whakapapa Village is the gateway to the magnificent walking trails. Parking inside Whakapapa Village is not a problem with purpose-built carparks open all hours of the day. Don’t have a car? Then seek out the many shuttle companies from your lodging to take you straight up and explore our backyard.
From Whakapapa Village make the year-round snow-capped Mt Ruapehu your next stop. Take short drive up the mountain for some short hikes and then venture onto the Sky Waka - New Zealand’s latest and most technically gondola. Journey into the clouds as the Sky Waka travels 1.8kms through one of the North Island’s most rugged and spectacular landscapes at Whakapapa. During your exploration, you will encounter glacial waterfalls and ancient lava flows - and just take in the majestic views of Mt Ruapehu and its neighbouring volcanoes, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro.
Like to research what short adventure suits you? Check out these websites: www.nationalpark.co.nz www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/central-northisland/places/tongariro-national-park/ www.mtruapehu.com/sky-waka www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz
RECOMMENDED WALKS:
edge Taranaki of a Falls: 15,000 A 2 year hour old loop lava to flow. the falls that tumble 20m over the
Silica Rapids: A 2 hour loop through mountain beech forest, the track travels alongside a cascading stream, arriving at the creamy white terraces of Silica Rapids. Has spectacular views of Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe on a clear day. Soda Springs: A 3 hour walk up Mangatepoppo Valley - the start of the Mighty Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Tawhai Falls: A movie set site from Lord of the Rings - 20mins return walk.
Tama Lakes: Absorb the stark beauty and magical colours of two volcanic explosion craters (5 hours return via Taranaki Falls)
The Mounds: Only a 10 minute walk, the mounds are believed to have been formed by debris avalanches during Ruapehu’s periods of volcanic activity thousands of years ago.
Whakapapa Nature Walk: A 15 min loop track. Wheelchair accessible. See examples of the unique alpine flora of Tongariro National Park from the sealed loop track. A series of information panels explain the various zones of vegetation in the park. Ridge Track: After a short climb through low beech forest, the track emerges into alpine shrublands with panoramic views of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and the surrounding landscape. Return via same track.
Meads wall and the Skyline Ridge Track are located on Whakapapa ski field. Experience isolation as your journey up an over volcanic terrain soaking in the deep canyons and views of all three volcanoes.